Ziprasidone capsules

What is this medicine?

ZIPRASIDONE (zi PRAY si done) is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

change in emotion or behavior such as feeling depressed, angry, or anxious

chest pain

difficulty breathing

difficulty swallowing

excessive thirst and/or hunger

fast or irregular heartbeat or palpitations

fever or chills, sore throat

frequently needing to urinate

inability to control muscle movements in the face, hands, arms, or legs

loss of balance or difficulty walking

lump or swelling on the neck

prolonged erection

redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

seizures

stiff muscles or jaw

tremor

uncontrollable movements or spasms of the face, tongue or mouth

weakness or loss of strength

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Where should I keep my medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

dementia

diabetes or high blood sugar

heart disease, including heart failure

irregular heartbeat

liver disease

low potassium level in the blood

Parkinson's disease or other movement disorders

previous heart attack or stroke

suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempt by you or a family member

an unusual or allergic reaction to ziprasidone, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

pregnant or trying to get pregnant

breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. It may be several weeks before you see the full effects of this medicine. Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the dose.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

This medicine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Dress warm in cold weather and stay hydrated in hot weather. If possible, avoid extreme temperatures like saunas, hot tubs, very hot or cold showers, or activities that can cause dehydration such as vigorous exercise.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.